XANAX
BACKGROUND OF XANAX
Xanax is a drug that is used as a short-term relief of panic disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, anxiety caused by depression and panic disorder associated with agoraphobia (abnormal fear of open or public places). Xanax belongs to the class of medication known as benzodiazepines or minor tranquilizers. The generic name of Xanax is alprazolam which is also sold under different brand names in other countries. Some of these brand names include Niravam, Alpravecs, Xanor, Frontal, Constan, Alpravecs, Afobam, Zoldac, Alviz and Zolarem. In addition to this, Xanax XR (extended release) is also available in the United States.
Xanax is also prescribed to treat irritable bowel syndrome, premenstrual syndrome, nervous tension associated with essential tremor, ringing ears, fibromyalgia and anxiety due to neurosis. Xanax acts on the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. Xanax enhances the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body that may become unbalanced and may cause anxiety. The drug Xanax, as needed, is prescribed to adults who are 18 to 60 years of age. The safety and effectiveness of Xanax for teenagers and children under 18 years of age have not been studied.
HISTORY OF XANAX
The Upjohn Company invented alprazolam, the generic name of Xanax. The drug was initially marketed as an uncommon benzodiazepine and was only categorized as anxiety neurosis. The Upjohn Company as the manufacturer of alprazolam is now owned by Pfizer Incorporated. Alprazolam was patented on October 19, 1976. Dr. Guy Chouinard was the pioneer in conducting a clinical test of alprazolam in patients diagnosed with panic disorder. Fifty panic disorder patients were the participants in the 8-week double-blind controlled study, of which some were given alprazolam, while the others were given a placebo. The results showed a dramatic decrease of somatic and psychic anxiety among those given the alprazolam, compared to those administered with placebo.
CONTENTS OF XANAX
The active ingredient of Xanax tablet is alprazolam. On the other hand, the inactive ingredients of Xanax consist of corn starch, cellulose, docusate sodium, magnesium stearate, lactose, sodium benzoate and silicon dioxide. Furthermore, the 0.5 mg tablet has FD&C yellow no.6, while the 1 mg tablet has FD&C blue no.2. Alprazolam is a short-acting drug used to treat anxiety disorders as well as a subordinate treatment for depression.
APPLICATION OF XANAX
Xanax is available in two forms, as oral solution and as tablets. The oral solution contains dosages of .25 mg, .05mg, 1 mg/5ml, and 0.25 mg/2.5ml. The proper application of Xanax oral solution is by use of the dropper provided by the product with the right measure of dose. The solution should be mixed with water, soda, or apple juice. On the other hand, the Xanax tablets contain dosages of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 2 mg. Xanax tablet is taken as a pill with a full glass of water. Chewing, breaking or crushing the tablets is not really advisable.
If the adult patient is experiencing anxiety disorder or nervous tension, the normal dosage is initially 0.25 to 0.5 mg taken three times a day. The maximum dosage is 4 mg in 24 hours. For patients with panic disorder, the normal dosage is 0.5 mg taken three times a day. The maximum dosage is 10 mg in 24 hours. The actual dosage must be prescribed by a doctor and the dosage will depend on the condition of the patient.
SIDE EFFECTS OF XANAX
Improper use of Xanax can lead to unpleasant side effects. These side effects need special medical attention. The use of Xanax should be based on prescriptions, and safety measures should also be taken into consideration.
Common side effects of Xanax may include:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- irritable feeling
- euphoria
- problems in sleeping
- lack of coordination
- confusion
- appetite or weight changes
- vomiting
- blurred vision
- slurred speech
- increased sweating
- nausea
- constipation
- trouble in concentration
- forgetfulness
- dry mouth
Less common side effects of Xanax may include:
- fatigue
- headache
- respiratory depression
- difficulty in depth perception
- memory impairment
- blood dyscrasias
- abnormal salivation
- constipation
- diarrhea
- vivid dreams or nightmares
- agitation
- muscle spasms
Serious side effects of Xanax may include:
- hallucinations
- hyperactivity
- unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of danger
- hostility
- seizure or convulsions
- urinating less than usual or not at all
- tremor
- muscle twitching
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- fainting
Xanax Rehabilitation Patients Say About Malibu Horizon
The identities of the people writing these statements in support of truths about their rehabilitation have been refrained from giving to protect their inalienable right to privacy. The foregoing names are fictional names of the author’s own choosing.
"My doctor prescribed me with Xanax due to my anxiety disorder. I regret using the drug continuously, going beyond my doctor’s prescriptions. As time went by, I experienced unusual drowsiness and I felt so much exhausted. My family rushed me in the hospital and to my surprise, I was overdosed. I’m so lucky that Malibu Horizon was there. They saved my life and they provided me with almost everything that I needed for my recovery." —Lynn
"Malibu Horizon helped me due to my drug dependence. I’m so thankful because they offered me with the appropriate treatment program for my case. I live normally now; thank you, Malibu Horizon." —Liz
"I always felt so worried every time I went to school. It caused me so many problems because it was like I can’t live normally. My doctor prescribed me with Xanax, little did I know I was becoming addicted to it. My friend introduced Malibu Horizon to me and my life was saved. Thanks to Malibu Horizon, I owe my happiness to you guys." —Jim
"Thank you, Malibu Horizon. Life is more meaningful and more enjoyable to me now. I’ve learned how to give importance to my health and I’ve learned how to prioritize things. Thank you for the excellent treatment program. I salute Malibu Horizon." —Kim